This guide is for those applying for an Australia Tourist Visa (subclass 600) online and some other tips on the Australia Tourist Visa Requirements if you apply in Manila, Philippines.

Australia was Jonathan and I’s last *ehem* continent and I must say that this country takes you back to the wilderness and makes you one with nature. It offers panoramic and jaw-dropping views that are just wonderful from every angle. It has vast wildlife, stunning sunrises, and sunsets. And the night sky is just mesmerizing with the light from a thousand stars!

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With your Philippines Passport and an Australia Tourist Visa, you can explore the Land Down Under including The Great Barrier Reef! So get your documents ready! :)

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QUICK FACTS ABOUT THE AUSTRALIA TOURIST VISA

Validity: up to 12 months
Number of Entries: Single, Multiple
Processing Time: 15-30 days

Embassy: Australian Embassy, The Philippines
Address: RCBC Plaza, Tower 2, Level 23, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City 1200
Telephone Number: +63 2 7757 8100
Email Address: manila.consular@mfa.no
Website: philippines.embassy.gov.au

YOU CAN APPLY ON YOUR OWN (ONLINE) WITHOUT A NEED OF AN AGENCY.

How To Apply For An Australian Visitor Visa With Your Philippines Passport

WHEN AND WHERE TO APPLY FOR AUSTRALIA TOURIST VISA

Visitor Visa applications (subclass 600) for Australia can be made through two different methods:

personally through VFS Global OR
online by creating an ImmiAccount which I personally prefer. The processing time is 48 hour to one month depending on several factors. I suggest you get your visa at least 6 weeks before your intended flight.

PRIMARY REQUIREMENTS FOR AUSTRALIA TOURIST VISA

Whether you course your application personally or online, the same set of documents will be asked of you. I personally prefer doing it online as it is way easier and more convenient than having to go to VFS Global. For purposes of this post, I’ll discuss how you can do it within the comforts of your own home. The following documents must be scanned:

1. Info page of your passport together with all stamps and visas. Include the info page and stamps on your old passport too;

2. NSO Birth Certificate/Marriage Certificate;

3. Passport size ID photo (35x45mm) which complies with the photo specifications;

4. Banks statements and Bank Certificates - good for 3 months;

5. Asset/s, if applicable like land/condominium title, land title, car registration certificate, or any investments that you have; and

6. Your travel documents and cover letter (optional).

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS FOR AUSTRALIA TOURIST VISA

These are the documents that you may submit to prove your status and your ties in the Philippines.

1. For students - Latest school records like transcripts and enrollment certificate.

2. For employees - Employment certificate from your employer, leave of absence, payslips, and Income Tax Return.

3. For entrepreneurs and digital nomads - A business registration certificate as well as your income tax return.

4. If you’re not paying for your trip - Pertinent financial and identification documents of your sponsor.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

1. Visitor Visa Application Form

2. Medical Check-up - if you are staying for more than 3 months either at Nationwide Health Systems Aux, Inc. (PHP 7,050) in Salcedo St. Legaspi Village, Makati, or St Luke’s Medical Center Extension Clinic in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

3. Visa Fee and Service Fee

Visa Fee - PHP 5,400 - 5,500 (AUD 145)
Primary Applicant Fee – PHP 659 (Via VFS)

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE: APPLYING FOR AUSTRALIA TOURIST VISAONLINE

STEP 1: Create your ImmiAccount.

STEP 2: Fill out the application form on your ImmiAccount. Be as detailed as possible and never leave an answer blank. Write N/A if the item is not applicable to you.

STEP 3: Attach ALL the requirements stated above which are applicable to you.

STEP 4: Review your application form and the attached documents thoroughly. Make sure you don’t miss anything out.

STEP 5: Pay the necessary fees (the base pay for a visit visa is AUD 140)

STEP 6: Download the health assessment endorsement. In the summary of your application, click on the health assessment button to generate a HAP ID and download your referral letter for a health exam. Hold on to this document until Immigration contacts you via e-mail instructing you to proceed with the medical. (Applies only to those staying in Australia for more than 90 days)

STEP 7: Once you receive this confirmation, print out your referral letter and go to an accredited medical institution. (Applies only to those staying in Australia for more than 90 days)

STEP 8: Wait for the results via email and print your visa if you get approved!

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT AUSTRALIA TOURIST VISA

1. Why do I need to have a medical exam?

Most applicants for visas to Australia need to meet Australia's health requirements in order to be granted a visa and they are really strict about it. If you’re staying in Australia for more than 90 days, you are required to complete immigration health examinations in order to show that you meet Australia's health requirements.

2. What are the accredited health institutions?

Nationwide Health Systems Aux, Inc. in Salcedo St. Legaspi Village, Makati or St Luke’s Medical Center Extension Clinic in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

3. Do I need to have a ‘show money’? How much should it be?

Definitely, as they are asking for a bank statement. Make sure you have enough funds to cover your day-to-day expenses including flights and hotels.

4. Do the documents need to be notarized?

It is not necessary :)

5. Can I just take a photo of my documents?

As long as it is clear, you may do so. But the scanned copy is always preferred.

6. Where is the VFS Application center?

VFS Global Services Philippines Private Inc.,
Mezzanine Floor Unit M01, Ecoplaza Building
2305 Chino Roces Avenue Extension
Makati City, Metro Manila 1231

VFS Cebu
9th Floor, Keppel Center, Unit 905
Samar Loop cor. Cardinal Rosales Avenue
Cebu Business Park, Cebu City 6000

7. How long is the validity of the visa?

The visa is valid for 6 - 12 months from the date of issue.

8. Do I need to book my plane ticket before obtaining a visa?

Not at all. It is also not recommended. Fully Paid Flight Ticket or Flight Reservation Ticket from a Travel Agency.

9. What if I get denied?

You can always re-apply!

10. Is the visa processing fee refundable?

Unfortunately, no.

11. Is it advisable to avail of the services of a tour agency?

For me, it doesn’t make any difference if you avail of their services. I got ALL my visas without their assistance. I did it all by myself! Aside from being very expensive, it doesn’t guarantee approval. What matters is that you have all the documents you submitted.

Final tip: Don’t get tired of going over your documents. You have only one chance to submit your application so once you click that button, there is no turning back. Make sure that everything is complete and soon you’ll be out there exploring The Land Down Under, meet new mates, have a barbie, and see a roo! :)

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Please do note that the Visa Application Tips that I am posting are true as of the time of writing and are all for free. But if you need a little more assistance, I can give you a one-on-one travel coaching for a minimal fee-- it’s a lot cheaper than getting it through a travel agency. Together, we can go through your documents, fill in what’s missing, practice for the interview, and work together for you to get that visa!